Dolphin's toxin studied to cure drug addiction

Someday, dolphin toxin may be used to treat drug addiction.

Research conducted by a team of the Third Institute of Oceanography of State Oceanic Administration said it has begun research on the toxin, and it's using RMB 600,000 (USD 75,000) in government funds for the project, the Southeast Express newspaper reported.

The dolphin toxin has quick efficacy in detoxification, producing few side effects. The project is expected to be finished by the end of 2006, and will produce at least one patent, the report said.
The Third Institute of Oceanography has set up midtest production line for annual production of 50g high purity dolphin toxin (over 99% purity). The institute will provide 200g of dolphin toxin in 2006, which can be used to produce 20 mln ampules for injections.